Sheikh Sharif Blames Hassan Sheikh as Gaalkayo Violence Deepens Political Rift

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Former Somali president Sheikh Sharif on Wednesday condemned deadly violence that erupted in the central town of Gaalkayo, offering condolences to those affected and calling for an immediate end to the clashes.

In a statement, Sheikh Sharif accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of bearing responsibility for what he described as the country's worsening political crisis and armed unrest, particularly in Gaalkayo in the Mudug region.

He also alleged that, instead of focusing state resources on the fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab, the government was deploying national security forces for political purposes, a move he said risked deepening divisions within Somali society.

Sheikh Sharif urged Somalis to preserve peace and social cohesion, stressing that political disputes should be resolved through dialogue and reconciliation rather than violence.

He further said Somalia needed political stability, compromise and national unity to prevent further tensions that could undermine the country's security and cohesion.

The federal government had not immediately responded to Sheikh Sharif's remarks.

GAROWE ONLINE